‘I misunderstood myself for years’: Petra Bagust on self-compassion

Catch up on the Mother’s Day edition of The House of Wellness with Chemist Warehouse on the Breeze, where Carolyn was joined by media personality Petra Bagust, broadcaster Nicky Styris, CE of the Mental Health Foundation Shaun Robinson, Dr Samantha Marsh from the University of Auckland, and resident pharmacist Piyara Perera. 

Featured Guest: Petra Bagust

Broadcaster and Grey Areas host Petra Bagust joined the show to explore the evolving layers of motherhood, identity and generational influence. 

She shared how her diagnosis of ADHD later in life has provided a “marriage of self” and a deeper understanding of her own internal narrative. 

“The fact I misunderstood myself for years, that I would be so hard on myself internally and ask myself ‘why can’t you do this?’” Petra explained.

“This deeper understanding of ‘oh this is how my brain works, I’m going to work with it’ is such a joy.”

She also emphasised the importance of self-compassion, noting that midlife and menopause have offered her the opportunity to care less about the small things and more about what truly matters. 

Featured Guest: Nicky Styris

Nicky Styris returned to reflect on how her understanding of strength has evolved through motherhood, ageing and now grandmotherhood. The shift is from a focus on physical appearance and pushing herself to embracing adaptability, resilience and selflessness. 

She credits her own mother for instilling healthy habits and strong family values, while also emphasising the importance of allowing children to fail, learn and build confidence through challenges, sport and routine.

Nicky says that communication, boundaries and making children feel loved have been central to her parenting approach, while becoming a grandmother has given her the time and perspective to be more present and playful. 

Featured Guest: Shaun Robinson 

With Pink Shirt Day taking place this Friday, 15th May, Shaun Robinson from the Mental Health Foundation spoke about the movement's impact on preventing bullying across New Zealand.

He introduced the concept of being an "upstander”, someone who notices bullying and takes action to support the person experiencing it.

Shaun highlighted that creating emotionally safe cultures in schools and workplaces is vital, as bullying can affect mental health for a lifetime. 

Featured Guest: Dr Samantha Marsh

Dr Samantha Marsh from the University of Auckland shared concerning research on how smartphones and social media are shaping the development of young children.

Her research shows that New Zealand teens spend an average of four hours a day on their phones, which can impact cognitive function, attention and mental well-being. 

She encouraged parents to join the “Smartphone Free Childhood” parent pact to collectively delay giving children devices until they are older and more resilient. 

Resident Pharmacist: Piyara Perera 

This week, Piyara highlighted the "hidden" health risks for mothers who often prioritise their family’s needs over their own well-being.

She warned that ignoring persistent fatigue, skipping meals, or delaying routine checkups can allow minor issues like iron deficiency or high blood pressure to snowball.

Piyara urged mums not to normalise feeling unwell and to seek preventative checks for concerns such as thyroid changes or blood sugar levels. 

Featured Product: Berocca Immune Daily Defence

Berocca Immune Daily Defence is an advanced triple-action formula scientifically formulated with a high dose of vitamin C, vitamin D and zinc. 

Designed for busy adults, it supports all three layers of the immune system and supports your body’s natural defences against winter ills and chills. 

Just drop it in water for a refreshing orange or blackcurrant drink - no artificial colours, just an easy, delicious daily support.

Always read the label and follow the directions for use. Dietary supplements are not a replacement for a balanced diet. Bayer NZ Ltd, Auckland. 

Catch the full episode up top and tune in next Sunday from 8am for The House of Wellness on the Breeze.